Once you begin to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle, it sometimes wind up becoming another thing to obsess about or something to perfect. However, at the end of the day, choosing from different eco-friendly options does not have to be a right or wrong decision. It is often just a matter of personal choice and timing.

For example, as we prepare for the upcoming school year, we decided we will be reusing our existing lunch bags and school bags because they are in great condition. I know some individuals who plan to upgrade all of their "plastic" based bags and items to organic cotton alternatives. But, where do their old items go (most probably they will wind up in the trash)? So, it's important to use some common sense and gradually replace old/worn out items with more eco-friendly items.

For this upcoming school year, I vow to pack a set of silverware for my kids' school lunches along with their lunchboxes. The school supplies free plastic ware so I've been lazy last year and haven't pack their own set of silverware, but now that they are a bit older, I am packing them their own set in hopes that they return safely home with them after school each day.

No need to splurge on fancy silverware sets. Just plan to use spare silverware.

Do you have any suggestions on how to be more eco-friendly this upcoming school year? Please share your ideas.

In order to eat healthier, I've tried to spend a little extra time at night to have healthy snacks especially fruits ready in the refrigerator. My kids, like most kids, are more likely to eat fruits when they are sliced, diced and chilled. So, I usually spend about 15 minutes each night slicing and dicing the following fruits: watermelon, mango, strawberries and melons. Usually, fruits last at least 3-4 days in the refrigerator. I noticed that if I offer my kids a "snack" they are more likely to request junk/processed foods. So, instead, I offer them a choice of fruit.

To make fruit eating fun, use a popsicle stick as a fork and have your kids poke and eat their fruit. This might cause a bit of a mess, but no harm done, as long as more fruit is consumed.

As Americans approach alarming rates of obesity across the country, politicians and educators are focusing on various solutions to promote healthier living. Improving diet and increasing exercise are proven methods to promote healthier living. However, studies have shown that individuals want specific solutions that are simple to follow.

By creating more sidewalks and mandating the existence of sidewalks in all commercial and residential developments throughout the nation, more individuals will become regular pedestrians. Yes, something so simple as having a safe place to walk will encourage more Americans to drive their cars less. Less driving means less pollution.

The following is a great website to find out more about sidewalk improvement and creation efforts, www.saferoutesinfo.org.

Write to your congressman today and tell them that you want them to support the maintenance and creation of more sidewalks.